I absolutely love this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe because it captures the cozy, comforting vibes of fall in a bowl. The way the sweetness of the roasted butternut squash mingles with the tartness of Granny Smith apples creates a perfect harmony of flavors that feels both nourishing and indulgent. It’s just the right soup to warm you up on chilly evenings or to bring a touch of autumn to your table any time of year.
When I first tried this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how creamy and smooth it turned out, even without any cream or dairy. The addition of silken tofu adds a subtle silkiness that makes every spoonful velvety and satisfying. You’ll find that this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe is also easy to make, with simple ingredients you can usually find in your pantry and fridge. Trust me, it’s a keeper!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet butternut squash and tangy apples create a delightful, comforting soup.
- Easy and Wholesome: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this soup accessible for all home cooks.
- Creamy Texture Without Dairy: Silken tofu adds smoothness without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Versatile for Any Season: While it’s perfect for fall, you’ll enjoy this soup anytime you want a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe blend together beautifully to create layers of flavor and rich texture. Picking fresh butternut squash and tart Granny Smith apples will really elevate your soup, so look for firm produce without bruises.
- Butternut Squash: Choose a medium, firm squash for the best sweetness and ease of roasting.
- Yellow Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when roasted alongside the squash.
- Sage Powder: Brings earthy, warming notes that pair perfectly with the squash.
- Garlic Powder: For a gentle garlicky undertone without overpowering the soup.
- Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the sweetness.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best to add a little bite and warmth.
- Olive Oil: Helps roast the vegetables beautifully and adds richness.
- Water: Base for the soup; you can adjust the amount for thinner or thicker consistency.
- Vegetable Bouillon Cube: Provides savory depth and a gentle umami kick.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the squash and apples well.
- Granny Smith Apples: One is roasted with the soup for sweetness, the other diced fresh for garnish.
- Silken Tofu: Adds creamy texture while keeping the soup vegan and light.
Variations
I love how flexible this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe is—you can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Experimenting with different spices or protein add-ins is a fun way to keep this soup fresh and exciting.
- Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne if you like a little heat; I discovered this trick when I needed a warmer kick on a cold day.
- Protein Boost: If you want more protein, swirl in some plain Greek yogurt or coconut cream instead of tofu for richness and a different texture.
- Make It Chunky: Reserve a few roasted squash cubes and apple chunks, then stir them back in after blending for texture variation.
- Seasonal Twists: Swap Italian seasoning for curry powder for a more exotic spin—I found even my kids love this version!
How to Make Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash and Onion
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out your sliced butternut squash and chopped yellow onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Drizzle a few tablespoons of olive oil over everything, then sprinkle with sage powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the veggies to coat them evenly. Roast for about 30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, checking them at the 25-minute mark so the onions don’t burn. If they’re not quite tender, let them roast for another 5 minutes or so.
Step 2: Simmer with Broth and Seasonings
Transfer the roasted butternut squash and onions into a large pot with a lid. Add 3 cups of water along with a vegetable bouillon cube and the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This step deepens the flavors and helps everything meld wonderfully.
Step 3: Add Apples and Silken Tofu
While the soup simmers, peel and core one Granny Smith apple, then roughly chop it. Add the apple pieces along with the silken tofu directly into the hot soup pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. The tofu will melt into the soup, contributing to its creamy texture without needing any cream or dairy.
Step 4: Puree the Soup Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup right in your pot until it becomes silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, then return the pureed soup to the pot. Add more hot water if you want a thinner consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper perfectly rounds out the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, peel, core, and finely dice the second Granny Smith apple. Ladle the soup into bowls, then sprinkle each serving with the fresh diced apple for a crisp, refreshing contrast. Optionally, finish with a little extra sage powder, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil to elevate the flavors.
Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
- Roast for Maximum Flavor: Roasting the squash and onion caramelizes their natural sugars, giving your soup a richer, deeper flavor.
- Watch Your Onion: Keep an eye on the onions during roasting; burning can make the soup bitter, so remove them early if needed.
- Use an Immersion Blender: It’s faster, less messy, and safer when pureeing hot soup directly in the pot.
- Adjust Consistency: Don’t be afraid to add extra hot water—a soup’s thickness is all about personal preference!
How to Serve Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a huge fan of simple garnishes that add contrast—so I always top this soup with fresh diced Granny Smith apple for a crisp bite. A light sprinkle of sage powder and a drizzle of good quality olive oil never fail to boost the aroma and flavor. Sometimes I add toasted pumpkin seeds or a few fresh herbs like parsley for a little crunch and color.
Side Dishes
This Butternut Squash and Apple Soup pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or warm cornbread for dipping. I often serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness. For a heartier meal, grilled cheeses or roasted vegetable quinoa make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re making this soup for guests or a special occasion, try serving it in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or acorn squash halves—that presentation never fails to impress. Garnish with a swirl of coconut cream and a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for an elegant touch. I’ve also tried layering the soup in clear glass mugs to show off the vibrant orange color, which gets lots of compliments!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I like to cool it completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation, which can affect the texture. When ready to eat, give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully! I usually portion it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Be sure to leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The texture holds up nicely because of the silken tofu base.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of hot water or vegetable broth to bring it back to your preferred consistency. I find reheating slowly preserves the delicate flavors and creamy texture best.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of squash for this soup?
Absolutely! While butternut squash has a naturally sweet, creamy texture that works beautifully, you can substitute kabocha or pumpkin if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that flavors and sweetness levels might vary slightly, so taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
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Is the silken tofu necessary?
The silken tofu is what makes this soup wonderfully creamy without dairy, but if you don’t have it, you can use coconut cream or even a bit of cashew cream as a substitute. You could also skip it and accept a slightly less silky texture, which will still be delicious.
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How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a certified gluten-free vegetable bouillon cube. Always check labels to be sure, as some bouillons may contain gluten.
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Can I make this soup spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce during the seasoning step. Start small and taste as you go to make sure it suits your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort foods, especially as the seasons change and I crave something warm and soothing. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and has that special balance of sweetness and savory spice that keeps me coming back for more. I hope you find the same joy in making and sharing it with your family—there’s something truly comforting about a homemade soup like this that warms both the body and soul.
PrintButternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 40 min
- Total Time: 50 min
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This creamy and comforting Butternut Squash and Apple Soup blends roasted butternut squash, sweet and tart Granny Smith apples, and savory spices to create a perfect balance of flavors. Enhanced with silken tofu for creaminess and seasoned with sage, garlic, and Italian herbs, this soup is an ideal bowl for chilly evenings, inviting cozy fall vibes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash (sliced into ½-inch thick slices or cubed)
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
- 1 (12-ounce) box silken tofu
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon sage powder (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Liquids & Others
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for garnish)
- 3 to 4 cups water
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the cubed butternut squash and chopped onion evenly on the baking sheet.
- Season and Roast: Drizzle the vegetables with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with sage powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything thoroughly to coat. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, checking tenderness. Continue roasting in 5-minute increments if needed. If onions begin burning, remove them early and set aside.
- Simmer Roasted Vegetables: Transfer the roasted squash and onions to a large pot with a lid. Add 3 cups of water, the vegetable bouillon cube, and Italian seasoning. Stir and bring to a boil, then cover and let simmer gently for 10 minutes. Turn off heat and let the mixture sit while you prepare the apples.
- Add Apple and Tofu: Peel, core, and roughly chop one Granny Smith apple. Add it along with the silken tofu into the hot soup pot. Stir well to combine.
- Puree Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and puree each batch, returning it to the pot. Add additional boiling water if you want to thin the soup to your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prepare Garnish: Peel, core, and dice the second apple into small cubes for garnish.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with 1–2 tablespoons of diced apple, a sprinkle of black pepper, sage powder, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Cozy, creamy, and packed with fall flavors, this soup perfectly balances sweet, savory, earthy, and tangy notes for a satisfying chilly evening meal.
- Roasting the squash and onions brings out deeper flavors and natural sweetness.
- Silken tofu adds creaminess and protein without dairy, perfect for vegans and lactose-intolerant diets.
- Adjust water quantity to customize soup thickness.
- Use fresh sage powder for best aromatic flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 773 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg